I’ve been scared of dental procedures for years. I’d been told the solution to this would be dental sedation. I was prepared to deal with it using sedation. But, then I read this news story about a dentist behaving inappropriately with female patients while they were under sedation. Now I’m afraid to go to a dentist for other reasons. How will I ever get my dental care done if I can’t feel safe?

Lori E.

Dear Lori,

Fear of the Dentist is Common

Dental anxiety is a common issue. Many patients face it, especially if they’ve had a traumatic experience in the past. Please don’t feel bad about that. Sedation will be a great solution for you. I know the story you’re referring to. It is a tragic story. However, I don’t want it to frighten you away from getting the necessary dental care you need. I truly believe sedation dentistry will help that.

What you have to remember is that every profession in the world has both incredibly wonderful people and a few bad apples. Don’t let the bad apples keep you away. You give them more power than they deserve.

Feeling Safe During Dental Sedation

Dentists who cater to fearful patients understand the anxiety that accompanies even walking into a dentist’s office, when you add the burden of mistrust because of the misdeeds of others it can be debilitating. The first thing I’d do is search for a sedation dentist. Then check their reviews. Make sure the patient’s who’ve seen them had good experiences. These reviews often give you the flavor of the office.

One thing to be aware of is that even one of the deepest levels of sedation, oral conscience sedation, will not put you out. It completely relaxes you and allows you to have a pain-free dental appointment, but you are still able to move and talk to the dentist if you choose to. You will be safe.

If you’re still concerned, talk to the dentist about wanting someone in the room with you during the procedure. Most dentists will understand that, especially with your specific fears.

It’s important you don’t put off your care. Take the steps necessary to get treatment. Otherwise, you’re likely to end up with a dental emergency. In that situation, you won’t get to research the dentist, you’ll just have to get in with whomever you can as fast as you can. Being proactive prevents that.